22nd Day: We changed from Yankee Staysail to Spinnaker overnight as the wind continues to back. This results in a slightly flatter boat allowing safer movement around deck. The weather remains blue skies with some cloud with an occasional squall. Crew now beginning to calculate possible arrival dates, counting the days down and talking about that first drink and that first meal. As we near land we start to see more bird life of different variety and today a whale surfaced off our starboard beam beating his tale on the surface as he submerged: a spectacular sight that had all awake crew emerge on deck to witness. We have some unpredictable weather ahead sitting just outside Punta del Este including a wind hole and gusting winds up to 40 knots. Our crossing has to date averaged winds of up to 17 knots so this will prove a sporty end to the first leg race two.
David Gateley, Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon